Here at the Blue Ox, we offer workshops and classes. Each workshop is a single session lasting 2 hours and covers the fundamentals of the course. The class consists of 4 workshops, which are typically spread out over a period of 4 weeks, resulting in a total of 8 hours of instruction, and provide a much more in-depth approach to each craft.

Current Classes

〰️

Current Classes 〰️

Blacksmithing

  • Blacksmithing 101 is offered on Tuesdays at 10am

    Join us in our blacksmithing shop where we teach blacksmithing using traditional methods. Unlike most propane fueled forges in this day and age, we use homemade charcoal to melt our metal, just like they would have in the Victorian days. Our Blacksmithing 101 workshops and classes are great for someone wanting to get started in the craft of blacksmithing. Learn the basics of turning a block of steel into a beautiful decorative or functional piece of art. The typical project for a 2 hour workshop is a decorative hook or fire poker. Projects for the 4-workshop Blacksmithing 101 class include more detailed versions of the above mentioned projects.

  • Blacksmithing 102 is offered on Tuesdays at 12pm

    For those who have completed Blacksmithing 101 or have previous blacksmithing experience, the Blacksmithing 102 course is a great addition to your skillset. Students taking the 2 hour workshop can expect to make a simple project such as a bottle opener or keychain. For those interested in larger projects, the 4-workshop class would be a better option. During the 8 hours of instruction you can expect to work on a larger project such as a coat rack or a set of fireplace tools.

  • Blacksmithing 103 is offered on Tuesdays at 3:30pm

    Our most advanced blacksmithing class is for the seasoned blacksmith or someone who has already completed Blacksmithing 101 and Blacksmithing 102. In Blacksmithing 103 you have the opportunity to work with the instructor to formulate a special project. Two hour workshops are fantastic for honing in on your scrollwork, or for completing a small project such as a candle holder. Students enjoying the 4-workshop class will get to work on a more advanced project such as a knife (18+ only) or a set of tools. Alternatively, let your imagination run wild and push the boundaries of artistic expression by making a sculptural art piece.

  • All participants must wear denim or canvas pants, fitted cotton long sleeve shirts (flannel or denim - natural fibers are best). We suggest wearing layers during the winter months.

    NO SYNTHETIC MATERIALS

    Long hair should be tied back

    Do not wear dangling jewelry or loosely hanging/baggy clothes

    Absolutely NO OPEN TOED SHOES allowed (no flip flops, sandals etc.)

    Leather boots or shoes are the best footwear for blacksmithing

    Leather work gloves should be loose fitting - gloves will not protect you from a burn, so if they get hot you need to be able to flip them off quickly with one hand

    Safety glasses will be provided by the Blue Ox

  • Blacksmithing is a time-honored craft practiced for centuries, playing a crucial role in humanity's transition from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age.

    Beyond tool and weapon production, blacksmiths were integral community members, repairing everyday items such as cooking utensils and farm equipment. Passing down their skills through apprenticeships, blacksmiths continue to uphold this tradition as both a thriving craft and a popular hobby.

    From creating ornamental ironwork to forging horseshoes, blacksmithing's appeal lies in its rich history and the fulfilling experience of working with metal.

  • Patrick Hutchens is an experienced blacksmith dedicated to using ancient forging techniques to produce robust, elegant ironwork that will stand the test of time. His passion for this trade started in his studies of medieval arms and armament. Curiosity about how to make the swords and armor with ancient techniques led Patrick to the forge. A growing fascination for the process has kept him intrigued and challenged for the past 25 years. He loves the physicality and deep focus blacksmithing requires, as well as the ways the craft combines art, engineering, and materials science. With a renewed appreciation for traditional arts in our culture, Patrick looks forward to sharing his insights into the are and science of blacksmithing.

    “They say blacksmithing is easy to learn, impossible to master. Thats’s why it’s kept me intrigued for over 25 years - I’m still a student. A deep focus and mindfulness are required to see a forging project through to completion. It requires a lot of forethought and engineering, but in the end you get a beautiful and functional piece of artwork that will last forever.” -Patrick Hutchens

Ceramics

  • Ceramics - Slab Building 101 is offered on Wednesdays at 1pm

    Join our beginner's Ceramic Slab Building 101 class and explore the exciting world of handbuilding with clay. This class is designed for individuals with little to no experience in ceramics and offers two options: a single two-hour workshop or a series of four two-hour workshops. Students participating in a 2-hour workshop can expect to make a trinket dish, wall hanging, or coaster. For those indulging in an 8 hour class, projects include boxes, planters, vases, or more detailed versions of projects taught in the 2-hour workshop.

    Please note projects may need to be retrieved at a later date due to the process time for firing and glazing

  • Ceramics - Tile Making 102 is offered on Wednesdays at 3:30pm

    Discover the art of ceramic tile making in our Beginner/Intermediate Ceramic Tile Making class. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore a new craft or an intermediate ceramic artist seeking to refine your skills, this class offers two options: a single two-hour workshop or a series of four two-hour workshops. Students participating in a 2 hour workshop can expect to make a set of 4 tiles with a simple design whereas students participating in an 8 hour class can create more advanced designs such as multi-tile murals or mosaic tile panels.

    Please note projects may need to be retrieved at a later date due to the process time for firing and glazing

  • All materials included. Make sure you wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty! Masks can be provided upon request.

  • Did you know that working with clay and firing the final product is considered the oldest trade in the world? The earliest clay statue, called "Venus," was discovered and carbon-dated to be a staggering 25,000 years old! While many techniques have evolved over time, the basic process of digging, processing, shaping, and firing clay has remained remarkably similar. However, there's one fascinating exception: slip casting.

    In the 1850s, a game-changing technique called slip casting was introduced. This method revolutionized the production of tableware, especially for the military. It all became possible thanks to the discovery of a special substance called sodium silicate, which acted as a deflocculant. Slip casting allowed for quick and efficient production, and it's still widely used today. In fact, one of the most intricate creations resulting from slip casting is none other than the flush toilet! Yes, you read that right. Next time you use this modern convenience, take a moment to appreciate the innovative technique that makes it possible.

    So, the next time you marvel at a beautifully crafted clay object or enjoy the convenience of a flush toilet, remember the fascinating journey of clay and its transformation through the ages. From ancient Venus statues to the efficient slip casting technique, clay continues to shape our world in surprising and remarkable ways.Item description

  • Jenifer Sherman

    Jenifer Sherman-Ruppe is a lifelong maker deeply committed to her community. Since 1994, she has called Humboldt home, channeling her passion for business and environmental sustainability. As a graduate of Humboldt State University and an art teacher, education and creativity have always been integral to her life.

    In pursuit of her education, Jenifer attended College of the Redwoods, where she completed requirement classes for an AA and transfer studies. Additionally, she dedicated a year to ceramics and jewelry classes. In 2001, she transferred to Humboldt State, engaging in sculpture, museum studies, printmaking, and art education. Graduating with highest honors in 2003, she obtained her teaching art credential the following year.

    Jenifer began her teaching career as a student teacher at a local community school, where she also worked as a substitute teacher until 2007. Subsequently, she became a full-time Teachers Aide at the Blue Ox school, contributing her expertise from 2007 to 2011. Concurrently, she taught ceramics and printmaking classes at the Blue Ox.

    Overall, Jenifer Sherman-Ruppe is a dedicated artist, educator, and advocate for sustainable living, enriching both her local community and the artistic realm.

Stained Glass

  • Stained Glass 101 is offered on Mondays at 10am

    Our beginner’s stained glass workshops and classes are perfect for someone just starting out in the world of stained glass. Our instructor Blaze Boyd will walk you through the basic steps of putting together your very own stained glass piece! Learn the process of design, cutting, assembly, soldering, and finishing a piece of stained glass artwork. Choose from a variety of colored glass and make a 4x4 panel in the 2 hour workshop, or work on a larger more extensive piece in the 4 workshop class. Students that choose the 4 workshop class will have the opportunity to go through our collection of 4x6 (and smaller) designs. Anyone that completes a workshop or class will walk away with a beautiful piece of stained glass art!

  • Stained Glass 102 is offered on Mondays at 1pm

    Stained Glass 102 is our intermediate stained glass course. This course is better for folks who may have a bit of experience with the craft who may need guidance along the way or want to hone their cutting and design skills. Learn how to work with varieties of textured glass such as hammered or rough rolled glass. Finish and refine one of your pieces in the 2-hour workshop, or take a look through our design book and try one of our designs. Depending on their abilities, students taking the 4-workshop class may have an opportunity to create their own design (with approval from the instructor).

  • Stained Glass 103 is offered on Mondays at 3:30pm

    Designed for the experienced glazier seeking more hands-on time and less guidance, Stained Glass 103 is the perfect match. If you're eager to bring your own creative designs to life, look no further. Our stained glass instructor will provide supervision and support throughout your artistic journey, as you delve deeper into the craft - allowing you to explore 3-D designs and advanced leading and soldering techniques.

  • While the dangers of stained glass aren’t too great, there are still some precautions to take. Safety goggles are provided by the Blue Ox, but please bring gloves if you prefer to work with them. We ask that students wear closed toed shoes (no sandals) when working with glass

  • Stained glass has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, where colored glass pieces were used for visual effects in walls and mosaics. Then, during the medieval period, stained glass reached its peak in European cathedrals, portraying religious narratives and inspiring worshipers.

    Although stained glass declined in popularity during the Renaissance, it experienced a revival in the 19th century, with skilled artisans rediscovering medieval techniques and adorning various buildings. In the 20th century, stained glass evolved further with innovative techniques and styles, remaining a cherished and vibrant art form appreciated for its beauty, transformative qualities, and storytelling ability.

    Today, stained glass continues to captivate and inspire in religious, public, and private spaces, with its timeless allure and ability to evoke emotions.

  • Our stained glass instructor, Blaze, is a true master of his craft, with over 40 years of experience since he first entered the trade in Phoenix, AZ. He was recruited by Glass Design, a small but determined company that recognized his talent for breaking glass in magnificent ways. Initially tasked with transforming large sheets of mirror, Blaze soon discovered his passion for creating stunning etched glass commissions and installing stock windows in tract homes to keep his creditors at bay.

    Following a successful tenure in Eugene, OR, where he honed his skills in glass installation for the renowned Marathon Coach, Blaze found himself in Santa Barbara, CA. There, he specialized in fabricating custom mirrors for the rich and famous while managing the operations at J&L Glass. Alongside his main work, he continued to indulge in his love for stained glass, always seeking new creative outlets.

    After four years as a glass contractor in Prescott, AZ, Blaze ventured west to Humboldt, where fate led him to the Blue Ox Mill. It was a serendipitous encounter, but their shared mission became crystal clear: to empower the next generation with the tools and knowledge that were once harder to come by. They aimed to show young minds that they, too, could master these skills and realize the profound importance of creativity, self-reliance, and community integration for personal growth and the betterment of our world.